Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Bowhunting Crossbow guidance for wife

Looking for a first crossbow for my wife. She's starting to enjoy deer hunting again but it'd be nice to archery hunt the better weather in October than what can be pretty dang cold in the November and December muzzy and rifle seasons in the NC mountains. Don't want to spend more than around $400 for this first venture. Light as possible. Absolutely need a crank to cock the bow. Barnett seems to have a few that qualify along with others. I'm just not familiar with this market. One thing I found out quickly from just picking some up at various stores is the scopes on all seem to be junk so no worries there. I'll plan to replace. Thanks in advance.

The Centerpoint bows get good reviews and are priced right. I am not sure about a crank being available for them though. I personally shoot and normally recommend a recurve (Excalibur or Kodabow), but they might be out of your price range unless you find a deal on a used one. The Excal is light and I believe a crank is available. Let her try whatever you look at before buying to make sure momma is happy!